Igora to replace Sochi for Russian GP for 2023

Igora Drive has been confirmed as the new home for the Formula 1 Russian Grand Prix from 2023.

The race has been held at the Sochi Autodrom since debuting on the calendar in 2014, taking place at the site of the Olympic Park and Fisht Stadium on the Black Sea coast.

However, for several years now, there has been talk of a move to the Igora Drive track near St. Petersburg and finally, on Saturday, the relocation was announced.

“I am pleased to confirm following joint intensive work with our Russian partners and detailed assessment of Igora Drive – Formula 1 will be racing at that amazing circuit from 2023,” said F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.

“I am impressed by St Petersburg and believe that the Russian Grand Prix at Igora Drive will be an incredible event.”

The new circuit opened in 2017 and is another creation by F1’s renowned architect Hermann Tilke. The full layout measures just over 4km long with 14 corners that run in an anti-clockwise direction.

Igora Drive is also expected to be a more attractive venue for fans, particularly those from Finland, with the track only 150km from the border.

DTM, Germany’s top touring car series, was set to be the first major motorsport category to visit the circuit last year before Covid-19 forced its cancellation.

But now Igora Drive can look forward to hosting the absolute pinnacle of motorsport in just two years time.